Hamas Frees Israeli-American Hostage After 484 Days
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Synopsis
On February 1, Hamas released 65-year-old Israeli-American hostage Keith Siegel after 484 days in captivity, marking the third release of the day. IDF confirmed his release, and medical assessments are underway.
Key Takeaways
- 65-year-old Israeli-American hostage Keith Siegel released after 484 days.
- Release confirmed by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).
- Medical evaluations are being conducted post-release.
- Hamas also released two other hostages on the same day.
- Part of a negotiated prisoner exchange deal.
Gaza Strip, Feb 1 (NationPress) A 65-year-old Israeli-American hostage, Keith Siegel, was liberated by Hamas on Saturday after 484 days in captivity, representing the third release that day.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed his release, noting that medical personnel were evaluating his condition at an initial reception point in southern Israel.
Siegel was taken hostage alongside his wife, Aviva, from Kibbutz Kfar Aza during Hamas' assault on October 7, 2023. While Aviva was released in a November 2023 ceasefire-hostage agreement, Keith remained in captivity until now.
"After 484 days, Keith has finally been freed from captivity," the IDF stated in a post on X.
Earlier that day, Hamas also released two other hostages -- 54-year-old Israeli-French citizen Ofer Calderon and 35-year-old Israeli civilian Yardan Bibas. The Red Cross assisted in their transfer from Hamas custody to the Israeli military.
After their release, all three hostages were transported to the IDF's Reim base near the Gaza border, where they were reunited with their families before being flown to hospitals in central Israel for further medical evaluations. Emotional videos of these reunions were shared by the IDF.
The recent releases followed the return of three other hostages -- Agam Berger, Arbel Yehud, and Gadi Moses -- on Thursday.
Earlier in the day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed them home and attributed their safe return to Israel's military efforts and unwavering negotiations.
"This release was made possible, first and foremost, thanks to our heroic soldiers, and it was also achieved thanks to the resolute and determined stance we maintained during the negotiations," Netanyahu stated.
The hostage releases were part of the fourth installment under a negotiated prisoner exchange and ceasefire arrangement. The transfer was coordinated with international mediators to ensure safe passage.
